INVERNESS, Scotland — Inverness Castle has officially reopened following a major £47 million transformation that repositions the historic landmark as a leading cultural and visitor destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Dominating the skyline above the River Ness, the 19th-century red sandstone castle has long been one of Inverness’s most recognisable features. The extensive redevelopment aims to open the building more fully to the public, combining heritage interpretation with contemporary visitor facilities and improved accessibility.
From civic building to visitor destination
For decades, Inverness Castle functioned primarily as a civic and administrative building, limiting public access to much of the site. The redevelopment has fundamentally changed that role. Visitors can now explore newly created exhibition spaces, panoramic viewpoints and areas dedicated to telling the story of the Highlands — its landscapes, people and history.
The project carefully balances preservation and renewal, retaining the castle’s historic fabric while introducing modern design elements intended to enhance the visitor experience. Improved access routes and facilities also make the site more inclusive for a wider range of visitors.
A gateway to Highland heritage
Local and national leaders have described the reopened castle as a cornerstone of Inverness’s cultural offer and a new gateway to understanding the wider Highlands. The site is expected to host exhibitions, cultural events and educational programmes, linking the city’s historic heart with contemporary cultural life.
For travellers, Inverness Castle now offers a starting point for exploring the Highland history, from clan culture and landscapes to the region’s evolving identity. The reopening is an important boost for cultural tourism in northern Scotland, reinforcing Inverness’s role as a hub for visitors heading into the Highlands.
The new website, invernesscastle.scot offers an overview of what visitors can look forward to at The Inverness Castle Experience. Tickets for both the Experience and Afternoon Tea in the North Tower Bar can be booked online, while access to the gardens, Saltire Bistro, and shop remains free for all visitors.
Source: BBC
